3 Northern California State Championship Running Backs To Know
When taking a look at the top ranked future class of 2021 running backs in California, these players may not make the list for some but if the COVID-19 situation improves in California, their name and stock will rise. Coming…
Access all of Prep Redzone
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingWhen taking a look at the top ranked future class of 2021 running backs in California, these players may not make the list for some but if the COVID-19 situation improves in California, their name and stock will rise.
Coming off state champion seasons, as juniors, all these student athletes have showcased their ability that contributed to a winning formula for their program. In hopes of having one more year to exercise their talents, their senior year will be one to watch.
Shane Moran – 5’10, 200 lbs – Cardinal Newman – Senior
(2020 Team record: 14-1, Won CIF D3-AA)
The do-it-all threat of Shane Moran brings together a full package of football positions. Having played running back while also being put in the role of slot receiver, returning kicks and punts, proves his ability is not to be overlooked. Running for 750 yds, 12 TDs, on 7.3 ypc last season, his tape demonstrated decent hands out of the backfield and even had success when put in the slot. Having caught 30 balls last season, he catches the ball well with his hands. However, when in the open field, he does not have the 2nd gear for the break away speed. Looks to run about a 4.7 40 yard dash. A bit stiff as a runner but has sneaky agility to make cuts in the open field that contributed to an impressive highlight tape. At the next level, he may be better for a hybrid fullback/tight end position or linebacker as he had 108 total tackles also.
Erik Christoffersen – 5’10 – 190 lbs – Clayton Valley Charter – Senior
(2020 Team record: 10-5, Won CIF D2-AA)
If there was a player who was the ultimate hidden gem it would be Christoffersen. Being 7th on the team in carries a season ago in a run heavy system, his opportunities running the ball were shown with great promise. On tape, he kept his feet moving on contact when finishing runs and has next level speed when breaking away from the defense. In an offense like Clayton Valley, the receiving game can be underlooked as their running game is their key to success. He led the team in receiving and receptions, with 26 catches for 493 yards. The open field awareness of him to get out in space and make people miss is on full display in his screen game highlights. His film shows the talent of just a pure athlete and an all purpose back. He brings a multi-talent threat as a receiver with catching screens, routes out of the backfield and even framing and tracking the ball down the field when split out as a slot receiver. His dynamic ability will be on full display alongside his talented and speedy teammate Omari Taylor, who almost had 1500 yds last season. If he can add a bit more to his frame, he will fit all the checks as a height, weight, speed player. He has all the tools to be a division 1 player with a great skill set.
Luke Anderson – 5’9 – 215 lbs – Escalon – Senior
(2020 Team record: 14-1, Won CIF D4-A)
The stocky and power running back/fullback out of Escalon was a major factor in their run for the D4-A state title. With 17 TDs, and 1,154 yards with a steady 6.4 ypc, Anderson brings a nasty punch to him. His running style features his love for contact and puts his head down over defenders. With not the greatest speed (looks to be no faster than a 4.8 or 4.9), Anderson more than makes up for it with his aggression. His height and “north and south” style of running, keeps his feet moving on contact as his tape exhibits several broken tackles. In addition to his style, he does have good ball security habits as he covers the ball well right before contact. He did not register a catch last season, which does show his limitations in the passing game. Anderson does not have much wiggle to his game as he fits the traditional mold of a fullback at the collegiate level, definitely can play at the next level. With 183 carries last season, Anderson will look to be the main focus of the offense again and help Escalon have another great season.